Snapper

Grassy Sweetlip

Jewfish

Shark

Barramundi

Trevally

Whiting

Boat Name

This is for ALL members, new or not so new.
A few of us discussed in @Doyley's "New Tow Rig" thread about having a get together somewhere on the beach.
I'm proposing the weekend of Friday 16th - Sunday 18th February as dates when we have high tides around 8.30 - 9.30am at Cooloola/Teewah. EDIT 29/1/18 Settled at Teewah 9/2/18 - 11/2/18 EDIT 1/2/18 Cancelled
Alternative place of Bribie Island has high tides 1.30 - 2.30pm.
It would be good if you could indicate your location preference and any alternate dates. Once we've thrashed it out and settled on a place and time we can organize the finer details.

In rummaging around in the world of light aircraft in Australia i noticed the only cheap usable aircraft come in kit form and some from time to time are converted to amphibian, However, since 2013 many "experimental classification" kit light aircraft have become both vaguely reliable and cheaper and only a few fall into the "average wage earner" level of owner builder that can be obtained as amphibian standard.At least one stands out and is not too bad, it comes from South Africa and is called a "BushCat".
Bushcat specs http://www.bushcatusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/BushCatSpecs2017.pdf
info other: Australian light aircraft usage for the average wage earnerhttp://windsolarhybridaustralia.x10.mx/PPL-light-aircraft.pdfThere are plenty of kit seaplanes of one or two seat that are immensely expensive but for now there have only been two or three cheap kit that make amphibian, one a bi-plane (Mariner aircraft).Basically i am trying to collect a whole database of experimental kit option that take two or four people and with some relevance to amphibian in the price range of such as the Jabiru fly away or Brumby.

taken from SSAA email newsletter 27-10-17
MISCHIEVIOUS AND FILLED WITH HALF-TRUTHS SSAA ISSUES UNITED RESPONSE TO GCA`S OPINION PIECE
27 October 2017 / In Politics
The entire SSAA federation consisting of the national and state and territory branches have released a detailed and unified response to a misleading report that unfairly criticised the independent state and territory gun laws compared to the National Firearms Agreement (NFA). Commissioned by anti-gun lobby group Gun Control Australia (GCA) and authored in part by known anti-gun writer Philip Alpers, the SSAA has labelled the report as nothing more than an opinion piece that should be treated as such.
https://ssaa.org.au/media/press-releases/ssaa-responds-to-gcas-report-into-australias-gun-laws
Apart from the glaringly obvious fact that the report, Firearm Legislation in Australia: 21 years after the National Firearms Agreement, is based on the 1996 Agreement and not the current version that was updated in February 2017, the document has not been peer-reviewed as per academic standards and is littered with biased commentary.
http://www.gunpolicy.org/documents/6936-firearm-legislation-in-australia-21-years-after-the-national-firearms-agreement/file
The entire premise of the report, that the NFA is federal law, is actually incorrect: the NFA is a non-binding document. The intent was that it should serve as a guide for the state and territory governments when formulating their own firearm regulations and legislation in their independent jurisdictions, keeping in mind their unique circumstances to best suit their constituents.
Each state and territory SSAA branch has responded line-by-line to the claims made in the report relevant to the corresponding jurisdictions. As the table clearly shows, the report contains obvious errors, misleading and subjective statements and very few facts.
The SSAA has slammed the authors’ offensive insinuation that shooters represent a public safety risk if they handle a firearm before the age of 18, as it attempts to shame our vulnerable youth who are merely participating in a legitimate activity. The SSAA is proud to facilitate the involvement of our youth, along with the less-able, families and women, in the proud Australian tradition of hunting and safe, fun and all-abilities sport of shooting.
The SSAA will continue to encourage and train the future generation of competitive sporting shooters, hunter-gatherers and cullers, while instilling basic firearms safety in our growing membership and promoting sensible firearms laws among our lawmakers, as we have done since 1948.
Downloads:
https://ssaa.org.au/assets/news-resources/politics/The_reality_of_independent_state_and_territory_gun_laws_compared_to_the_1996_National_Firearms_Agreement.pdf

Government accused of spending big to keep NSW shooters on side
http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/government-accused-of-spending-big-to-keep-nsw-shooters-on-side-20171022-gz5sqy.html
…….While other community groups and sporting associations fight an endless fundraising battle, NSW gun and shooting clubs are receiving $600,000 a year in funding under the so-called Safe Shooting Scheme, introduced by the Carr government two decades ago…..
……The scheme was started after the NSW government agreed to introduce the tough gun laws that John Howard negotiated across the country after the Port Arthur massacre. Back then it was explained that the grants were needed so the clubs could adhere to tough new safety laws….
Once again Gun Control Australia takes aim at the law abiding rec shooters and a recognised sport. With NSW having approximately 235 listed gun clubs, do the math for how much was/is given in funding, then do some research and add up the figures for the amount of grants/funding given out to all other sporting bodies/organisations.
quote{Back then it was explained that the grants were needed so the clubs could adhere to tough new safety laws….}, look back to when all sporting clubs had to adhere to the new Child Safety, volunteer/club staff working with children blue cards introduction, how much in grants and funding did this cost, when every club house/grounds nooks and crannies had to be assessed and rectified (if needed)

https://www.flyingdoctor.org.au/news/flying-doctor-issues-new-snakebite-advice/
NSW/ACT
News
Flying Doctor issues new snakebite advice
DATE PUBLISHED
05 Oct 2017
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Our South Eastern Section has updated its advice and procedures following the publication of a new snakebite study. The Australian Snakebite Project is the most comprehensive ever carried out, involved over 1500 patients and collated snakebite data from the past 10 years (2005-15).
“The publication of this study is very timely as the warm, dry winter and sudden rise in temperatures has brought snakes out early this year,” said Tracey King, Senior Flight Nurse at the RFDS South Eastern Section, who has attended snakebites during her career.
“As venomous snakes are found in every state and territory we urge everyone, not just those in the warmer Outback locations, to be vigilant.”
“There are around 3,000 reported snakebites each year in Australia, resulting in 500 hospital admissions and an average of two fatalities.”
The Australian Snakebite Project threw up some surprising statistics, which challenges many long-held perceptions about where snake attacks occur and how to treat them.
In those attacks in which the snake was positively identified, the brown snake was the most common biter (41%), followed by the tiger snake (17%) and red-bellied black snake (16%).
There-quarters of the people bitten are males aged in their 30’s. Most snake attacks occur near houses, not in the bush. Half of all bites occurred while people were out walking, with gardening and trying to catch a snake the most common other scenarios.
While only 20- 25 out of 835 cases they studied resulted in death, the effects of a snakebite can be debilitating and far-reaching. Three-quarters of those bitten experienced venom-induced consumption coagulopathy, which causes blood clotting and life-threatening haemorrhages. Acute kidney injuries, brain and muscle damage and cardiac arrest are other possible side effects.
“That’s why it’s important that people act quickly after a possible bite,” said Tracey.
“Surprisingly, they’re often painless and may go unnoticed as tissue damage is mostly light – lacerations, scratches or light bruising along with some bleeding or swelling. As over 90% of snakebites we found to occur on the upper and lower limbs, these are the places to check first.”
“Common symptoms include an unexplained collapse, vomiting and abdominal pain, bleeding or paralysis.”
Many dangerous myths surround the treatment of snakebites. The most important dos and don’ts include.
Do NOT wash the area of the bite or try to suck out the venom. It is extremely important to retain traces of venom for use with venom identification kits.
Do NOT incise or cut the bite, or apply a high tourniquet. Cutting or incising the bite won't help. High tourniquets are ineffective and can be fatal if released.
Do bandage firmly, splint and immobilise to stop the spread of venom. All the major medical associations recommend slowing the spread of venom by placing a folded pad over the bite area and then applying a firm bandage. It should not stop blood flow to the limb or congest the veins. Only remove the bandage in a medical facility, as the release of pressure will cause a rapid flow of venom through the bloodstream.
Do NOT allow the victim to walk or move their limbs. Use a splint or sling to minimise all limb movement. Put the patient on a stretcher or bring transportation to the patient.
Do seek medical help immediately as the venom can cause severe damage to health or even death within a few hours.
The new study has prompted the RFDS SE to reverse previous long-standing advice about the importance of identifying the colour and type of snake.
“Staying in the area after an attack can be dangerous and recent advances in medication mean we can now treat any snakebite with a generic polyvalent anti-venom, so identification is no longer necessary.”

taken from SSAA email newsletter 5-10-17
SSAA responds to GCA’s report into Australia’s gun laws
The SSAA has issued the following press release today in response to a report by Gun Control Australia (GCA) into the National Firearms Agreement: The National Firearms Agreement (NFA) is a non-binding document that serves as a guideline for Australia’s state and territory governments on which to base their firearms laws. States and territories are ultimately responsible for firearm laws and always have been. This has always been the case.
The report commissioned by Gun Control Australia (GCA) and written by a known anti-gun author simply demonstrates that state and territory governments have adapted the NFA to suit the individual and unique circumstances of each jurisdiction. The state and territory governments have been entrusted with formulating firearm laws which best apply to their constituents. The circumstances in outback Queensland are vastly different from inner city Sydney.
GCA report here: http://www.gunpolicy.org/documents/6936-firearm-legislation-in-australia-21-years-after-the-national-firearms-agreement/file
The SSAA will always support measures that genuinely contribute to public safety. We will not, however, sit back while radical fringe groups dictate policy on the basis of fear and emotion, instead of scientific evidence and commonsense. GCA, with the support of the Australian Greens Party, which has a long-held ideological hatred of firearms, is again using fear to sensationalise the reality of Australia’s gun laws. We condemn the opportunistic timing of the report’s release to coincide with the tragic events that occurred in the United States.
The SSAA will closely examine the report’s findings in the coming weeks. In the meantime, we encourage GCA and its friends to focus on the criminal misuse of illegal firearms rather than continuing to harass law-abiding firearm owners, for no public safety benefit.

I don't think whales should be encouraged to play "Stacks On"!
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-09-13/breaching-humpback-whale-nearly-crushes-fishing-brothers/8939972
I wonder if this is the same little dude we saw near Heron Island? It looks like a little one just like the one in the photos.
Has this happened to any of you?
@Luvit @straddiebrad @demarc how did this week go for you all? See any whales close up?

Hi Everyone.
Im looking for a bit of help for a weekend away. Wanting to take a simple camping setup, 4.5m tinny with a 40hp Yamaha and the Navara. Hoping to find somewhere for about 3 days with an easy boat launch and flattish water as the lady is scared of the big bad ocean. Maybe a bit off the beaten track as well.
Any ideas or help as to where we can go would be much appreciated. Also don't want to go more than about 2 or 3 hours from Brisbane.
Thanks in advance for any help.

Wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction. We spend a few days at a time on our boat and when we come to NSW will be looking at a secure storage facility where we can leave our vehicle and trailer that isn't too far from a marina. or decent boat ramp. At least a short taxi ride if possible. Looking at places - Bribie Island or Brisbane coastal areas, Gold Coast in Qld and in NSW - Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Brisbane Water, Brooklyn/Hawkesbury, Pittwater and Sydney Harbour. We have to be mindful of the route as our boat/trailer is over width on a tri axle... so the bigger easy to get to ramps with a jetty/pontoon are ideal. Are there any short term storage facilities where people leave their vehicles and trailers? Boat/ship yards that supply this service? What do others do that have large trailerable boats who go out on the water for a few days at a time? Quite happy to pay the going rate for secure parking.... just unsure if and where these facilities are located.

I am considering converting my standard boat trailer to a 4x4 version. however I am concerned about the trailer being to high to launch. I am considering a "step down axel" to compensate for the rise in height, however it looks like this would be where the axle might bend. The reasons I want to convert my tailer is my 14" wheels are just not handling the roads as well as what I would like. Has anyone done this on there trailers and how did you compensate for the rise in height. My boat is 5.3 seajay and needs about ⅓ of the trailer in the water to launch and retrieve I have measured it and I can just fit some 17" hilux wheels on it and be legal.

Shark attack, Moreton Bay
QPS Media on Apr 2, 2017 @ 7:51pm
http://mypolice.qld.gov.au/blog/2017/04/02/shark-attack-moreton-bay/
A Sunshine Coast man has had a lucky escape after a shark bit off the back of his kayak in Moreton Bay this afternoon.
The 39-year-old man was paddling towards Mud Island in a group of 9 people when his kayak was attacked and began to sink around 8 kilometres east of Woody Point.
Water Police responded to the man’s Triple 0 call and were able to track his location by using incoming aircraft to Brisbane Airport.
The man was rescued by water police just before 4pm and his damaged (formally) 6.5 metre kayak was also recovered from the water, sporting a large hole from where the shark had bitten into it.
The man from Maroochydore was returned to his vehicle at Bulimba Point uninjured although quite shaken and glad to be out of the water.
Sergeant Gordon Thiry from Brisbane Water Police said it was very fortunate they were able to find the man in time.
“We would encourage anyone heading out on the water to always wear a life jacket, carry an EPIRB and make sure you let someone else know where you’re travelling to and how long it will take,” he said.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.

Hi Guys,
I've been fishing at Deep Water Bend a bit lately and have been savaged by biting midges.
Hoping for some tried and trusted midge repellent or solutions that also wouldn't hamper the fishing.
Thanks.
Lex

Copy of seq water recreation newsletter, Quite a few changes
ubject:
Recreation Newsletter March 2017
Date:
22/03/2017 8:52 am
From:
recreationreview <recreationreview@seqwater.com.au>
To:
March 2017
Achievements of the Recreation Review – three years of progress
In 2013-14, Seqwater conducted a large scale community consultation project known as the Recreation Review. We grouped lakes that are in close proximity into ‘clusters’ and examined the type, mix and amount of recreation activities on offer. More than 2,500 survey responses were received and numerous consultation sessions conducted. A report for each group was produced which highlighted some of the key improvements each community said they felt would benefit recreation in the area. You can read these reports online. Many of these improvements were made possible through funding from the Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing.
Some of the group specific highlights include:
Cluster 1 – Atkinson, Somerset and Wivenhoe
· A designated swimming area was established at Lake Atkinson in early 2014.
· At Lake Somerset, a 6 knot gazette area was established in the northern end of the lake to improve safety and allow fishers and kayakers to recreate safely in this area. To help support this initiative, a new access point at Westvale Road was built so that small fishing vessels and paddle craft can launch directly into this 6 knot area. A new playground was also installed at The Spit, enriching this family friendly day use area.
· At Lake Wivenhoe, a 6 knot on-water speed limit for low emission fuel powered vessels was established and those wanting to pursue more high octane activities encouraged to visit Lake Somerset. Two designated stop off points with picnic facilities were established for paddle craft users. The Billies Bay and Hays Landing recreation area was refurbished and opened to the public in late 2016. The area features a range of facilities including a boat ramp, swimming area, toilet amenities, parking and ample picnicking facilities.
· The boating permit scheme for Lake Somerset and Lake Wivenhoe will be phased out, and the scheme discontinued from 1 August 2017. This will bring the access policies for these lakes back in line with our other sites and allow recreation users to enjoy on-water access without the cost of a permit.
Cluster 2 – Kurwongbah and Samsonvale
· Paddle craft were permitted access to Lake Kurwongbah in late 2014. To support this change, a new designated launch point and wash down facility was established at Mick Hanfling Park, fishing was permitted from kayaks, and updated signage was installed.
· In mid 2016, a new car park was established at the end of Postman’s Track at Lake Samsonvale, and more than 7km of fire break trails were opened for public multi-use access. An extensive study was untaken at Lake Samsonvale to determine whether opening the lake to public paddling would have an impact on the drinking water quality. The study determined an increase in paddle craft could be accommodated, and discussions are underway to investigate possible launch points and other details of the potential arrangement.
Cluster 3 – Maroon, Moogerah and Wyaralong
· In late 2014, we established a new paddle craft launch point in the Maroon day use area and permitted visitors to bring their dogs on a leash to the area.
· Lake Moogerah received numerous upgrades including: a designated swimming area at Muller Park, the establishment of a 6 knot speed limit for two arms of the lake and dogs were permitted on a leash at Haigh Park. In addition, the picnic facilities were upgraded with a ceremonial structure, new bollards, resurfacing of the car park and new gardens.
· Seven new shade shelters were installed at Meebun Day Use Area at Lake Wyaralong, along with the new car park and toilet facilities at the improved Eastern Trail Access. Additional multi-use trails were also established.
Cluster 4 – Baroon and Ewen Maddock
· The upper reaches of Lake Baroon were opened up to paddle craft in early 2014, and the Martin Williams Walk was extended in early 2015.
· Throughout 2014 many changes were implemented at Ewen Maddock, including the installation of a new wash down facility, improved paddle craft access and parking facilities. The Gympie Street North entry point to the trail network was improved with new entry fences and the local council laid new road base. In addition, Seqwater will be installing a new toilet block over the coming months at the Ornamental Wetlands area to facilitate use of the adjacent mountain bike trails in Beerwah State Forest.
Cluster 5 – Enoggera, Gold Creek and Manchester
· Many of the 2014 upgrades at Enoggera were done in conjunction with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS), including: a new paddle craft launch point, allowing fishing from paddle craft and establishing a picnic area. Trail signage and mapping is still being investigated.
· Gold Creek received some basic picnic facilities, and an updated orientation sign is currently being installed. More signage updates are anticipated for the area.
· Recreation users can now fish from paddle craft on Lake Manchester with a new paddle craft launch point installed. In addition, the picnic area has been refurbished with two new gas BBQs, three new rubbish bins and repairs to picnic tables. The trail linkage has been improved so that trail users no longer need to use Lake Manchester Road and we have some signage and mapping updates on the horizon.
Cluster 6 – Cooloolabin and Wappa
· Cooloolabin Dam received a security upgrade with a lockable gate as well as new signage and upgraded picnic and playground facilities.
· The picnic and playground facilities were also upgraded at Wappa with an additional revamp of the toilet system.
Cluster 7 – Clarendon and Dyer
· Some exciting new changes took place in 2015 at Lake Clarendon with a new bird watching trail established adjacent to the dam wall, paddling and fishing becoming approved recreation activities as well as the installation of a new launch point.
· A new swimming area was established at Lake Dyer in 2015 and signage throughout the recreation area was improved. Seqwater is also currently investigating the installation of a graded track below the dam wall linking the caravan park to the golf course.
Cluster 9 – Borumba and Macdonald
· Borumba underwent a significant upgrade in mid-2016 with a new double lane boat ramp constructed in August. To further extend this ramp, Stage 2 will begin construction in the next few months and should be completed by mid-2017. The 6-knot speed limit for timbered areas was investigated and approved by Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ), but further consultation with the community indicated the change was not supported.
· Improvements have been made to the wash-down facilities and picnic areas at both Lake Macdonald Park and Mary River Cod Park at Lake Macdonald. These upgrades included a new BBQ, horse hitching rail and landscaping in 2015 and resealing the car parks in 2016. Dogs were also permitted on leash at Lake Macdonald Park from late 2014.
Cluster 10 – Hinze
· Numerous upgrades have taken place at Hinze Dam during the last three years, including: the installation of new shade shelters and picnic tables, new rigging/de-rigging areas at the Eastern and Western boat ramps, signage improvements, the formalisation of a trail entry point on Advancetown Road, a new paddle craft launch point at the Western Boat Ramp, the installation of a soft-fall rubber surface under the playground and allowing dogs on leash at Picnic Parkland and Pocket Park.
Across all areas, Seqwater have updated the opening hours for all recreation areas (excluding Lake Dyer) after an extensive trial period with community feedback. The opening hours were changed from 6am to 6pm throughout the year to be 5:30am – 6:30pm September to April and 6:00am to 5:30pm May to August. This change allows recreation users to enjoy an additional 180 hours of recreation time a year.
The implementation of the majority of outcomes from the Recreation Review represents a huge achievement and milestone for all the members of the community who participated in this process. Together we have achieved many positive outcomes for all of our lakes and recreation areas that should benefit the community for years to come. We are always on the look out for ways to continually improve our recreation areas. Exciting new projects are on the horizon, so stay tuned for updates! As always if you have any feedback, please call our Recreation team on 1800 737 928 or email recreation@seqwater.com.au.
Remember to play it safe at our dams, lakes and parks over the Easter long weekend. It’s one of the busiest times of year at our lakes, and we want everyone to have fun and go home safely.
Good news for paddlers at Lake Samsonvale
The results are in from the 2014 Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) at Lake Samsonvale, which was an Australian-first study and took two years to complete. The study determined the lake is able to support the introduction of public paddling without impacting drinking water quality. This is fantastic news for the community and paddle craft enthusiasts looking to access Lake Samsonvale. Seqwater will be working with local recreation clubs, neighbours and the Moreton Bay Regional Council over the coming months to carefully plan these changes. The location for the new public access launch point has yet to be finalised, and the timing of these changes relies heavily on the outcome of community consultation as well as securing funding to construct the new launch point. Swimming will remain a prohibited activity for Lake Samsonvale, and the restricted access zone between the overhead power lines and the dam wall will remain in place, with water based activities prohibited in this area.
If you would like more information about this project or would like to provide feedback, please contact the Seqwater Community Relations team on (07) 3035 5500 or email communications@seqwater.com.au.
Borumba boat ramp upgrade - Stage 2
The falling water level at Lake Borumba is not all bad news for boaties! The lower water levels have allowed Seqwater to prepare for the construction of stage 2 of the Borumba boat ramp upgrade. Stage 2 will extend the boat ramp by approximately 10 metres, allowing recreation users to launch vessels for longer as the water level drops. It is expected that construction will commence around late April or early May, and should be completed by mid year without any unforeseen delays or weather events.
Remember to always check the recreation and safety notices on our website before planning a trip to one of our recreation areas. You can access the recreation and safety notices web page here.
Changes to camping at Lake Wyaralong
Families and visitors to the Meebun day use area will have noticed the absence of backpackers and campers frequenting Meebun since the 8 free campsites were closed at the end of January. The sites were the cause of numerous compliance and hygiene issues including the misuse of toilet facilities, environmental damage, illegal activity and vandalism. The closure of this site as a camping area has made the Meebun day use area cleaner, safer and more family friendly. It is also the first step in the implementation of a master plan for recreation at Lake Wyaralong.
For any campers looking for other camp grounds around Lake Wyaralong, there is the Ngumbi remote camping area which can be accessed via the multi-use trails (no vehicles), as well as the Lilybrook Recreation Area which can be accessed via Beaudesert-Boonah Road. Camping at Lilybrook is for event use only and requires a booking. For any enquiries or to make a booking for an event, please contact the recreation team on 1800 737 928 or email recreation@seqwater.com.au.
Playground upgrade at Meebun
Last month the playground at Meebun day use area was upgraded with a new rubber soft fall product. The standard bark mulch that was installed previously required significant upkeep, as it was frequently washed away by stormwater and could potentially conceal hazards such as broken glass and the edging could present a trip hazard. The new state-of-the-art rubber soft fall is a safe and low maintenance solution, and should keep this family friendly recreation area safe for many years to come!
New campground management at Wivenhoe and Somerset
Three of our more popular campgrounds, Somerset Park, Captain Logan Camp and Lumley Hill, are under new management. Parks and Resorts Operational Management will assume management from Wednesday 29 March 2017. The existing pricing structure will remain in place until 1 July 2017, at which point they will be subject to change.
In preparation for the changeover, the Captain Logan and Lumley Hill campgrounds have been revamped, with updated signage to be installed prior to the Easter holiday period. Campsite locations at Lumley Hill have changed, with new campsites opening up around the amenities block, and others along the foreshore being removed. Issues with erosion and damage to the natural area motivated the change, and it is hoped that by removing the campsites situated along the sloping foreshore that we can rehabilitate the area to its former glory. The reduction in the number of campsites also brings the campground capacity back in-line within the facilities’ limitations.
You can access an information fact sheet with maps of the campsites on our website.
For bookings or enquiries at Captain Logan and Lumley Hill campgrounds, please phone 0428 310 740 or email Wivenhoe.camping@seqwater.com.au.
For bookings or enquiries at Somerset Park campground, please phone 0428 180 450 or (07) 5426 0186, or email Somerset.parkcamping@seqwater.com.au.
New amenities block for mountain bike riders
The new toilet block at Ewen Maddock’s Ornamental Wetland is expected to be finished and operational in the next 3 - 4 months. The Ornamental Wetlands serves as a launching point for Mountain Bike Riders heading to the Ferny Forest Trails in Beerwah State Forest, and though there is ample parking available there were previously no amenities. It is hoped that this new facility will make the trails more accessible to the community. This project was made possible through funding from the Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing.
If you would like more information about this project, please contact 1800 737 928 or email recreation@seqwater.com.au.
Planned burns season has begun
During the cooler months, Seqwater will be conducting planned burns around our dams, lakes and parks. The planned burn program began in March and will continue until September. During this time, we may close trails and other recreation areas in the interest of public safety. Please be aware of the following important information:
· Smoke may drift and can stay around for up to one week after the burn, subject to weather conditions
· If you have a respiratory health condition, please follow the advice of your health practitioner and, if applicable, carry reliever medication with you at all times during the burn period
· During the burn, in case of an emergency, please call triple zero (000).
Each burn is conducted in accordance with a Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) burn permit, which outlines the ideal temperature, wind speed and direction, and humidity conditions to conduct the burn. As these conditions can change at very short notice, the decision to proceed with a burn can often only be made the day before a burn. For this reason, Seqwater will deliver a notice card to neighboring properties the day before a planned burn, once pre-burn checks have confirmed the burn can go ahead.
Please remember to check the recreation and safety notices on our website for information about upcoming planned burns and any changes to recreation when visiting our dams, lakes and parks. For more information about the planned burn program, email communications@seqwater.com.au or phone 1800 771 497.
Alternatively, a full list of proposed

Hey guys,
I am looking at getting my first boat in the next few months and I have a budget of about 10k all ready to go. i was looking at a few of those old half cabin styles, i think one of the examples was a 1999 swift craft half cabin. I was also interested in the aluminium run abouts. so pretty much what i am trying to ask is what would be a good first boat under 10k? i mainly want it for leisurely fishing and to be able to start exploring places i can't get to in my 4wd. cheers guys

G'day lads,
so I've finally managed to convince the boss (misses) to let me buy a boat her only rules are cheap and we can chuck it on the roof for when we go camping.
I was was wondering if anyone has some advice or experience or knows somebody selling a topper.
im currently limited to no longer than 3m and and could go around 1500 give or take a bit in width.
Thanks a lot lads!

Hi all,
not a specific fishing report but thought I'd post it up as I know a lot of members like 4wd'ing and camping and alike.
after a late change in plans and a cancellation of a planned trip to vanuatu, I was left with a week off and nothing to do. The weather looked completely rubbish for boating/coastal activities so I hatched a plan to go exploring down in the New England area of NSW, east of Glenn innes/armidale. I packed up my truck, esky, swag, chair, bourbon, spare fuel and water, dropped the dog off at mums place and off I went. Got to Glenn innes and turned left and went along the old Glenn innes - grafton road through mann river reserve. Went through a hand carved tunnel in the rock and pulled up for the night at a camp area at dalmorton, an abandoned settlement dating back to a gold rush in 1860. Rolled the swag out, poured a bourbon and enjoyed the serenity. Went exploring at night down on the river and saw many frogs, 4 different snakes and several eels and tandans in the river.
woke up the next morning, Vegemite on toast and 2 cans of sardines later I was on my way. Continued along the Glenn innes grafton road and eventually got back on the bitumen at nymboida. Followed the very scenic road down to ebor, stopped to check out ebor falls which was pretty cool. Then headed into cathedral rock national park, realized I'd forgotten to pack any shoes other than my slides so climbed the 4km to the top of the rock in my slides, much to the amusement of people who were busy preparing (over-preparing) for the same walk with gps watches, boots, hydration packs and clothing that cost more than I care to think about and the worst combover I've seen in a while. I'm sure they had as much fun as me... Climb was a bit challenging but not too bad, view at 1514m above sea level was awesome. It was 12 degrees when i left the car, was about that with wind chill on top at the top of the rock, very glad I took my wind proof jacket.
after a quick lunch on the tailgate, I headed into armidale to top up fuel and water supplies. Went in to armidale sports and outdoors, the guys there were awesome and gave me heaps of information about where I could catch a bass or a trout. I ended up buying some deadly flathead lures there that I hadn't been able to find anywhere else, random but hey, I'll take it. Actually found driveway service at a servo there too...
Headed back east from armidale, stopped in at wollomombi falls which is the 2nd highest in Aus, unfortunately there was no water this time. Awesome gorge and a nice walk along the top too. Headed down the armidale-kempsey road into oxley wild rivers national park. The weather turned for the worst so I slipped and slid my way into wattle flat camping area. Had a break in the rain which allowed me to set up quickly, pour a bourbon and sit down and cook my kangaroo steak while watching a mob of kangaroos grazing in front of my camp... Irony?
woke up the next morning to sunshine and complete stillness, sat up in my swag, kangaroos grazing everywhere, thought of having a flick in the creek in front of the camp ground, saw a disturbance on the surface but it turned out to be a platypus cruising along the surface so I just watched for a bit. Turns out there was two platypus in the one long pool, first time I've seen two in the one place.
packed up and slid my way back up the hill out of wattle flat, headed back up towards point lookout (not the straddie one). At 1563m I was hoping it would be out of the clouds... But unfortunately not. So the view wasn't all that great. Just lots of cloud. just up the road there is a trout hatchery so I amused myself there for an hour or so. You're allowed to feed the trout, unfortunately no fishing in the stream beside it, there was some massive rainbows in there!
headed off along the armidale-kempsey road again which I would have to say is one of the most scenic drives I've ever done. Lots of places to access the river, stopped for a bit of a fish, managed a small bass on a bubble pop 35, couldn't use a diving lure due to weed. Awesome looking river though.
Eventually got to kempsey, stopped for a pie (or 3...) at Freddos pies, had a bit of a think about where to go next. Opted to head up the pacific highway to grafton and then turned left and headed about 80km to washpool national park. Got there fairly late, set up quickly and chilled out. As it got dark, the fireflies started to come out which was pretty cool. Went for a bit of a walk after dark and saw a spotted quoll and a powerful owl and a few different kinds of frogs.
it rained most of the night but the awning and swag kept me dry. I was hoping to go for a bit of a hike but the rain was persistent so I started a wet pack up. I was distracted when a lyrebird just wandered into my camp site, first time I've seen one in the wild. Headed up through Stanthorpe to Warwick and decided to take a scenic route home via queen Mary falls and then back to Killarney via the Condamine river road. Very scenic drive (4wd only along Condamine river rd) with many river crossings, would be a nice day trip from brisbane.
Headed back home, set up the awning and swag out the front in the sun to dry it all out much to the amusement of my neighbors.
thanks for reading, here's some pics for those that are interested.
bourbon!
The set up
Ebor falls
Ebor falls
Crimson Rosella
Orchid - @Dinodadog care to identify?
Cathedral rock
Wollomombi falls/gorge
Mud!
The view from point lookout
IMG_4852.MOV
Armidale-kempsey rd, oxley wild rivers NP
Daggs falls near Killarney
Queen Mary falls
View from a lookout just up from falls
condamine river rd

Taken from SSAA email newsletter 4-5-16
Greens Nameless Anti-gun ‘Study’ a Big Flop
The SSAA-LA was shocked when a successful Freedom of Information bid, by the NSW Greens gave the party access to highly sensitive information regarding how many firearms licences are held in each NSW postcode.
http://ssaa.org.au/news-resources/politics/greens-nameless-anti-gun-study-a-giant-flop
The result of this FoI led to the creation of the irresponsible Too Many Guns website, where users can find out exactly how many registered firearms exist in their NSW suburb, along with a nameless academic ‘study’ falsely linking violent crime with the number of registered firearms in the area.
SSAA NSW, with the support of the SSAA-LA, rightly issued a statement criticising the NSW Greens and notorious anti-gun politician David Shoebridge MLC for the low act.
http://www.ssaansw.org.au/index.php/home-page-articles/461-ssaa-nsw-holds-greens-and-media-to-account
In the lead-up to the Federal Election, the SSAA-LA has reached out to the federal division of the Greens party requesting its views on our sport and industry for our election coverage. We are still waiting for any form of response.

Taken from SSAA email newsletter 4-5-16
28-4-16
As the nation mourned the 20th anniversary of the Port Arthur murders, the SSAA was contacted regarding our views on the latest questionable research https://theconversation.com/australias-gun-numbers-climb-men-who-own-several-buy-more-than-ever-before-58142 from known anti-gunner Phillip Alpers http://ssaa.org.au/news-resources/know-your-opponent/addressing-alpers-inaccuracies-again
SSAA National President Geoff Jones, speaking on behalf of our 177,000 members and Australia’s more than one million licensed firearm owners, issued the below statement to numerous media outlets including News Corp, The Guardian and the Australian Associated Press
“The SSAA finds the latest fluff piece from Mr Alpers highly dubious that contains outlandish and amateur research findings by a known anti-gunner He appears to be using the Port Arthur tragedy for his own personal public gain and is well known for seeking funding for his anti-gun activities while claiming to be a neutral academic.
“His claims that legal firearm imports and ownership has increased since Port Arthur can be attributed to quite simple reasons. The Australian dollar was, at one time, almost on parity with the United States dollar meaning it was actually cheaper to buy a new firearm rather than a second-hand one. The mining boom saw well-paid workers who had the time and finances to take up a new hobby embrace the safe, fun and all-abilities sport of shooting.
“Mr Alpers’ unfounded concerns that firearms stolen from licensed owners are somehow leaking to into the black market and threatening public safety are a stretch, given that research by the Australian Institute of Criminology shows that only 3 per cent of firearms stolen from licensed owners are subsequently used to commit a crime.
“The finding that restrictions on self-loading longarms has had no impact on suicides should come as no surprise to anyone because of the very mechanics of these firearms.
“Suggestions that our gun laws have been watered down or weakened are also questionable with no clear example given demonstrating that the public is somehow at risk because of any changes to regulations surrounding law-abiding firearm owners.”
http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/real-life/more-guns-and-bigger-arsenals-than-ever-australias-not-out-of-range-yet/news-story/5ac9fd189627c27cee0edaebd20b4a55
http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2016/apr/28/australias-gun-laws-non-negotiable-says-turnbull-on-port-arthur-massacre-anniversary
https://au.news.yahoo.com/nsw/a/31452779/calls-for-stricter-gun-laws-not-needed/

recently have started a vege patch and talking to few boys at work quite a few fellas have a bit of crop growing too ,
so if you have one going in your yard show us what you have for a bit of inspiration!